Planning Travel During Ramadan

Traveling during Ramadan requires adjusting your daily rhythm to follow local fasting hours, meaning most restaurants are closed during the day and life shifts to the night. Plan your major sightseeing for early mornings, avoid eating or drinking in public, and embrace the festive atmosphere that begins once the sun sets.

  1. Check the local moon sighting rules. Ramadan is based on the lunar calendar and shifts 11 days earlier each year. Check the specific moon-sighting authority for your destination country to confirm the exact start date, as it can vary by 24 hours between countries.
  2. Schedule sightseeing for early mornings. Energy levels are lower during the day, so start your activities at 8:00 AM. Many museums and attractions shorten their operating hours or close entirely by 2:00 PM to accommodate staff who are fasting.
  3. Respect the public fast. Do not eat, drink, smoke, or chew gum in public spaces during daylight hours. Carry a refillable water bottle, but keep it tucked in your bag until you are in your hotel room or a discreet area.
  4. Prepare for evening activity. Cities come alive after Iftar (the breaking of the fast). Plan to be out after sunset to enjoy night markets, street festivals, and late-night social scenes that don't exist during the rest of the year.
  5. Secure evening dining reservations. The moment Iftar occurs, restaurants will be packed with locals. If you want to eat at a popular spot, book your table 24 hours in advance for immediately after sunset.
Will I starve if restaurants are closed?
No. Hotels and international-branded cafes in tourist zones usually keep at least one restaurant open with partitions or blackout curtains for non-fasting guests.
Is it rude to travel during Ramadan?
Not at all. As long as you are respectful of local customs regarding public consumption, most locals are happy to see visitors participating in the festive night culture.
Do public transport schedules change?
Yes. Expect erratic schedules and reduced frequency during the sunset hour as staff go to break their fast. Avoid booking non-essential travel for the 30 minutes before and after sunset.